Pediatric and Adult Tongue and Lip Ties

What is a frenum?

Your child’s mouth contains small folds of tissue that support their speech and oral functions. These pieces of tissue, known as “frenums,” are usually considered part of standard anatomy and are harmless, necessary components of the mouth. However, in some cases these folds of tissue in the mouth can restrict the movement of the tongue or lips. Restrictions can actually cause functional problems with breastfeeding, eating, and speaking. They can also lead to gum recession later in life, as the labial frenulum pulls gums off the bone. Frenectomy procedures are performed in an attempt to avoid issues with breastfeeding, speech problems, and orthodontic issues.

Did you know that everyone has seven frenums, also known as ties? There are typically four buccal (cheek) ties, an upper lip tie, a lower lip tie, and a tongue tie.

What is a frenectomy?

While most frenums function as they should, some frenums can occasionally pose problems due to their thickness, depth, size, or location they attach. Such frenums can inhibit speech, development, and the ability to eat.

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure designed to release the restriction and help restore proper function with minimal compensation patterns.

At Poplin Pediatric Dentistry, we can perform a frenectomy to improve your/your child’s quality of life. Dr. Poplin is one of the only pediatric dentists in Austin hat has trained to perform a functional frenuloplasty.

How do you perform a tongue tie release?

Dr. Poplin chooses to perform frenectomies using laser dentistry because this type of treatment is fast, safe, and efficient.

We rely on the Solea Laser to help make your child’s treatment more comfortable. This laser technology means a shorter recovery time, less bleeding, and a smaller chance of postoperative infections. We do place anesthesia for this procedure and there should be no pain during the procedure! For children over four, we recommend myofunctional therapy before and after a frenectomy to get the best results! We work with several wonderful myofunctional therapists around Austin.

Does my child need a frenectomy?

If your child has a tongue tie, you’ve likely already noticed signs at home.
Typically, children who need a frenectomy have difficulty:

• Eating

• Swallowing

• Breastfeeding

• Speaking clearly

• Breathing with their mouth closed

I am an adult. Do I need a frenectomy?

Typically, adults who need a frenectomy have difficulty:

• Eating

• Swallowing

• With body tension

• Speaking clearly

• Breathing with their mouth closed